21st Day of Advent

 In Mary, we confirm the truth that generosity is a virtue of great souls, who know how to find their reward in the act of giving.  A generous person knows how to be loving and understanding and how to give help – without demanding love, understanding or help in return.  He gives and forgets he has given, and in this lies his riches.  He has understood that it is better to give and receive.  He realizes that to love is in its essence to give oneself to others.  Far from being an instinctive inclination, love is a conscious decision of the will to draw close to other people.  To be able to love truly it is important to be detached from everything and, especially, from self, to give gratuitously.  This detachment from self is the source of a balanced personality.  It is the secret of happiness. (Pope John Paul II, Address June 1, 1980)

                                                                             ~In Conversation with God vol. 1 p. 192

 

 

 

Pro-Life Challenge:

Do I give away myself without counting the cost?